Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as staph, are bacteria often found on the skin and in noses of healthy individuals. Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) is a strain of staph that is resistant to the antibiotic methicillin. MRSA can appear as sores, bumps, or swollen cuts and spreads through direct skin contact or surfaces with the infection. The school has taken measures to prevent MRSA and encourages hand washing, keeping wounds covered, avoiding contact with others' wounds, and disinfecting exercise equipment. Early treatment of suspected MRSA infections is important.

1. Staphylococcus aureus (“staph”) are bacteria commonly found in the
noses and on the skin of healthy people. Staph with resistance to the
antibiotic methicillin (and other related antibiotics) are known as
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus or “MRSA.” Resistance
means that a particular antibiotic will not work against those bacteria.
MRSA may appear as:
• Sores that look and feel like insect bites
• Red painful bumps under the skin
• A cut that is swollen, hot and filled with pus
• Red, warm, firm skin area that is painful and getting
larger (often on the legs)
Staph and MRSA can be spread when a person:
• Has direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
• Touches surfaces that have staph on them from
someone else’s infection (ex. towels, athletic equipment,
used bandages, etc.)
Note: Staph is not usually passed through the air.
The school district has taken extra precautionary measures to
disinfect and sanitize the facilities. In addition, you can help prevent
the spread of MRSA by following good hygiene practices:
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a
bandage until healed
• Avoid contact with other person’s wounds and bandages
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors
• Wipe surfaces of exercise equipment before and after
use.
Early treatment of suspected MRSA is important. If you are
concerned about a wound or sore on your athlete contact me, Rob
and their parent immediately. If parents have other questions about
MRSA, please have them consult their health care provider.
Information regarding a student with a diagnosed or a suspected
infectious condition should be reported to the school nurse as well as
the athletic trainer (for athletes).